The Devine Salerno Podcast

🎙️ Vida Elekovic - The Devine Salerno Podcast No. 13 In this episode, Devine sits down with Vida Elekovic — a 23-year-old Serbian entrepreneur who moved to America 10 years ago and became a business owner by age 19-20. Vida shares her journey building a custom signage company (Me on Neon / Worldwide Signage), running sober living homes, the influence of her serial entrepreneur family, and raw stories from her past. From growing up in Serbia, navigating immigration twists, to scaling multiple businesses and turning personal challenges into purpose-driven work — this is a powerful conversation about hustle, family influence, resilience, and building something real. Plus, she made the sick custom sign for the set! 👉 Follow Vida & check out her work: Meon Neon / Worldwide Signage (custom signs, channel letters, large format & more!) Instagram: @meonsigns TikTok: @meonsigns YouTube: @meonneon https://www.meonneon.com 👉 Follow Devine: Snapchat: @devinesalerno Instagram: @thedevinesalerno TikTok: @thedevinesalerno Facebook: "The Devine Salerno Podcast" All Right Reserved Ledger Media Company 2026 If you enjoyed the episode, drop a like, comment your biggest takeaway, and subscribe for more raw conversations with real people who’ve been through it. New episodes dropping regularly! #DevineSalernoPodcast #Entrepreneur #SignageBusiness #SoberLiving #ImmigrantStory #YoungEntrepreneur

In this raw and powerful episode of The Devine Salerno Podcast No. 12, host Devine Salerno sits down with Chris "Psycho" Mendoza — a man who's lived the streets, survived Arizona prison yards, battled addiction, and is now fighting for a new life in Colorado. Chris holds nothing back as he shares his unfiltered journey: growing up with abuse, Tourette's, and ADHD, turning to boxing and violence as a kid, high-speed chases, multiple prison bids, running with the "Skina" table on the Murder Yard, prison politics, hustling, and the brutal realities of gang life behind bars. He also opens up about recent relapses, losing friends, his wife, sober living goals, music background, and what real change looks like moving forward. This is a gritty, honest conversation about trauma, street code, prison culture (Arizona vs. Colorado), rock bottom, and the daily grind of redemption. If you're in recovery, have done time, or just need a real story of resilience, this episode hits hard. 👉 Follow Chris Mendoza for updates on his journey. 👉 Follow Devine: Snapchat: @devinesalerno Instagram: @thedevinesalerno TikTok: @thedevinesalerno Facebook: "The Devine Salerno Podcast" X: @westdevine4tay thedevinesalernopodcast.com 👉 Follow Ledger Media Company: TikTok/Instagram: @ledgermediacompany ledgermediacompany.com Brought to you by Ledger Media Company Drop a like if this story resonates, comment your biggest takeaway, and share with someone who needs to hear it. New episodes drop regularly — stay tuned! Episode recorded 2026 | All rights reserved, Ledger Media Company & The Devine Salerno Podcast

🎙️ Alfredo "Houdini" Serna - The Devine Salerno Podcast No. 11 From the streets to shooting a cop at 17, a 27-year prison sentence, and one of the most legendary escapes in Colorado history — this episode is as real as it gets. Alfredo opens up about being taken from his mom at 11, diving headfirst into gang life, car thefts, guns, and everything that came with it. He breaks down the high-speed chase that changed his life forever, doing time in the Colorado State Penitentiary, surviving "convict college," the hole, and what prison really does to a man. He also tells the full story of his escape from Lookout Mountain in the early 90's and Arkansas Valley Correctional Facility in 1999 (the one that landed him on A&E’s “I Almost Got Away With It”), life on the run in Mexico, and getting taken down by SWAT. But the most powerful part? The mindset shift that happened at 26 while locked in solitary. Reading books like Think and Grow Rich, learning to protect his peace, thinking steps ahead, and deciding he was done letting his past run his future. Now out and working as a peer recovery coach and tattoo artist, Alfredo shares the lessons that actually stuck — and how he’s using his story to help others before they make the same mistakes. No script. No polish. Just two felons talking about life, regret, redemption, and what it really takes to change. If you’ve ever felt stuck, lost time you can’t get back, or wondered if it’s too late to turn it around — this one’s for you. 👉 Watch the full episode and subscribe for more real conversations. 👉 Connect with Alfredo: Facebook: "Alfredo Serna" 👉 Follow Devine: Snapchat: @devinesalerno Instagram: @thedevinesalerno TikTok: @thedevinesalerno Facebook: "The Devine Salerno Podcast" X: @westdevine4tay thedevinesalernopodcast.com (Coming soon) 👉 Follow Ledger Media Company: TikTok: @ledgermediacompany Instagram: @ledgermediacompany ledgermediacompany.com (Coming soon) 👉 Follow Gold Standard Recovery: Search “Gold Standard Recovery” or visit goldstandarddenver.com Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more powerful episodes of The Devine Salerno Podcast. Drop your own recovery story, questions for Alfredo, or thoughts in the comments below — we might just read it on a future episode! The Devine Salerno Podcast | Episode 11 | Denver, Colorado

In this episode of The Devine Salerno Podcast No. 10, we sit down with Sean Davis — former gang member, prison kingpin, street-level drug dealer, and now successful owner of Lotus Recovery Homes. Sean holds nothing back as he takes us on a raw, unflinching journey through the darkest chapters of his life. From running the streets as a gang member and battling a brutal drug addiction, to multiple prison stays where he rose to become a kingpin masterminding a full-blown “prison trap house” inside Colorado’s Department of Corrections — Sean shares the gritty, heartbreaking reality of rock bottom and the hopelessness that consumed him. You’ll hear the powerful “ah-ha” moment that changed everything, how he and his wife fought their addictions together as a team, and the incredible story of how they turned their lives around to build a thriving sober living business. Today, Sean is deeply immersed in the world of recovery coaching, behavioral health, and sober living — constantly learning, growing, and helping others break free from the same cycle that once controlled him. Whether you’re struggling with addiction, in recovery, working in behavioral health, or simply love powerful stories of redemption and resilience, this episode is a must-watch. It’s raw, real, and full of hard-earned wisdom you won’t hear anywhere else. 👉 Connect with Sean Davis & Lotus Recovery Homes: (Insert website/social links here when available) 👉 Follow Devine: Snapchat: @devinesalerno Instagram: @thedevinesalerno TikTok: @thedevinesalerno Facebook: "The Devine Salerno Podcast" X: @westdevine4tay thedevinesalernopodcast.com (Coming soon) 👉 Follow Ledger Media Company: TikTok: @ledgermediacompany Instagram: @ledgermediacompany ledgermediacompany.com (Coming soon) 👉 Follow Gold Standard Recovery: Search “Gold Standard Recovery” or visit goldstandarddenver.com Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more powerful episodes of The Devine Salerno Podcast. Drop your own recovery story, questions for Sean, or thoughts in the comments below — we might just read it on a future episode!

In this episode of The Devine Salerno Podcast No. 9, we sit down with Aaron Miller — lifelong mechanic, seasoned street racer, and former owner of MOD CC and MOD Automotive in Denver. Aaron doesn’t hold back as he dives deep into the raw, unfiltered side of the underground automotive world. From high-octane street racing stories that’ll have your heart racing, to the insane business drama that went down in Denver’s car scene, this conversation is packed with jaw-dropping moments. You’ll hear the wild tale of how his landlord got busted by the FBI and Interpol, plus the shocking story of a ruthless competitor who ran a full-blown automotive Ponzi scheme that took down multiple shops and left a trail of betrayed customers in its wake. Whether you’re a gearhead, a street racing fan, or just love crazy real-life stories from the garage, or perspective from a business owner/financial market trader this episode delivers non-stop entertainment and insight you won’t hear anywhere else. From building high-performance builds to navigating the chaotic underbelly of the auto industry, Aaron shares the good, the bad, and the absolutely unbelievable. If you love cars, racing, underground stories, and unfiltered conversations, hit that play button now and buckle up — this is a wild ride. 👉 Connect with Aaron: [email protected] (mobile mechanic services) 👉 Follow Devine: Snapchat: @devinesalerno Instagram: @thedevinesalerno TikTok: @thedevinesalerno Facebook: "The Devine Salerno Podcast" X: @westdevine4tay thedevinesalernopodcast.com 👉 Follow Ledger Media Company: TikTok: @ledgermediacompany Instagram: @ledgermediacompany ledgermediacompany.com 👉 Follow Gold Standard Recovery: Search “Gold Standard Recovery” or visit the link below YouTube: @GoldStandardDenver Instagram: @goldstandarddenver TikTok: @goldstandarddenver Snapchat: @goldstandardco goldstandarddenver.com 👉 Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more episodes of The Devine Salerno Podcast. Drop your favorite car story or wild shop tale in the comments below — we might just read it on a future episode!

In this powerful episode of The Devine Salerno Podcast No. 8, host Devine Salerno sits down with Zackariah Jones (AKA Kunta Kente) for an inspiring conversation about redemption, resilience, and rebuilding life after incarceration. Zackariah opens up about his journey from serving a life sentence in the Colorado Department of Corrections (CDOC) to becoming a successful entrepreneur. He shares how he founded multiple businesses, including Servin Up Recovery Kitchen — a food truck-style operation delivering nutritious, "food truck" meals directly to halfway houses and recovery centers across the Denver metro area, supporting those in addiction recovery and reentry. Devine and Zackariah dive deep into how their prison experiences shaped them into the business owners they are today. They explore: The unexpected benefits and lessons drawn from hardship Turning struggles into strengths The critical role life experiences play in meaningful work and helping others Zackariah also doesn't hold back on the brutal realities inside CDOC, especially during the pandemic — describing the harsh conditions that tested human dignity and survival. This episode is a raw, motivational testament to second chances, personal growth, and using your story to serve others. If you've ever needed proof that transformation is possible, this is it. 👉 Connect with Zackariah Jones AKA "Kunta Kente": Instagram: @ktae143143 Facebook: "Zackariah Jones" 👉 Connect with TLtraffic: Gmail: [email protected] 303-900-3057 👉 Connect with Servin Up Recovery Kitchen: Facebook: "ServinUpSURK" Snapchat: @Surkfood TikTok: @Surk IG @servinuprecoverykitchen Gmail: [email protected] 303-900-8422 👉 Follow Devine: Snapchat: @devinesalerno Instagram: @thedevinesalerno TikTok: @thedevinesalerno Facebook: "The Devine Salerno Podcast" X: @westdevine4tay thedevinesalernopodcast.com 👉 Follow Ledger Media Company: TikTok: @ledgermediacompany Instagram: @ledgermediacompany ledgermediacompany.com 👉 Follow Gold Standard Recovery: Search “Gold Standard Recovery” or visit the link below YouTube: @GoldStandardDenver Instagram: @goldstandarddenver TikTok: @goldstandarddenver Snapchat: @goldstandardco goldstandarddenver.com Subscribe for more real conversations on entrepreneurship, recovery, justice, and second chances. Like, comment, and share if this story hits home — let's spread the message of hope! Follow Zackariah Jones and Servin Up Recovery Kitchen for updates on his mission. Connect with Devine Salerno and the podcast for more episodes. Episode recorded on 2/28/26, all right reserved, Ledger Media Company & The Devine Salerno Podcast 2026

In this episode, host Devine Salerno sits down with Paul “Halloween” English for a powerful, raw conversation about resilience. Paul grew up in Denver’s Park Hill neighborhood—a predominantly Bloods area—during the late 80s and early 90s. At just 14 years old, he was sentenced to 48 years for second-degree murder. After serving 26 years in prison, Paul was released in 2019. In this interview, Paul opens up about: • Life in Park Hill during its most turbulent era • The harsh realities of decades behind bars • The profound challenges and adjustments of re-entering society after 26 years locked up • His remarkable mindset shift that led to personal transformation Today, Paul is a QBHA-certified recovery coach at Empower ReEntry, helping others in sober living find their path forward. A true story of turning pain into purpose—don’t miss this inspiring episode! 👉 Connect with Paul English: Instagram: @mr.pauld.english Facebook: "Paul English" Work email: [email protected] 👉 Connect with Empower ReEntry & Empower Recovery Homes: Instagram: @empowerrecoveryhomes Facebook: "Empower Recovery" empowerrecoveryhomes.com Empower Recovery Homes Intake Line Phone Number: (720) -779-1359 👉 Follow Devine: Snapchat: @devinesalerno Instagram: @thedevinesalerno TikTok: @thedevinesalerno Facebook: "The Devine Salerno Podcast" X: @westdevine4tay thedevinesalernopodcast.com 👉 Follow Ledger Media Company: TikTok: @ledgermediacompany Instagram: @ledgermediacompany ledgermediacompany.com 👉 Follow Gold Standard Recovery: Search “Gold Standard Recovery” or visit the link below YouTube: @GoldStandardDenver Instagram: @goldstandarddenver TikTok: @goldstandarddenver Snapchat: @goldstandardco goldstandarddenver.com Drop a like if this story hit home, comment your biggest takeaway below, and share with someone who needs to hear it. New episodes drop regularly — stay tuned! Subscribe for more real conversations on life, struggle, and second chances.New episodes drop regularly—hit the bell 🔔 #Redemption #SecondChances #DenverStories #Reentry #RecoveryCoach #TrueStory #Podcast

Episode 6: From the Streets to Building a Legacy of Redemption | Chris McDonald on The Devine Salerno Podcast In this compelling and insightful Episode 6, host Devine Salerno welcomes Chris McDonald — founder and owner of Empower Recovery Homes, a successful network of sober living and transitional recovery homes in Denver, Colorado. Chris takes listeners on a journey through his life, sharing raw stories from his past growing up on the streets of Tennessee. He opens up about the challenges, struggles, and hard lessons that shaped him before he made the move to Denver and turned his life around. Through deep dives into his personal beliefs on accountability, resilience, interpersonal relationships, and purpose, Chris explores what true redemption looks like—not just for himself, but for the men he now helps every day. Today, Chris is a dedicated family man and entrepreneur who has built multiple thriving businesses, with Empower Recovery Homes standing as a beacon of hope. Providing structured, supportive environments focused on recovery, employment, and long-term success, his work empowers individuals to rebuild their lives after addiction and hardship. This episode is a powerful discussion on life, business, redemption, and leaving a lasting legacy. Chris’s story proves that no matter where you start, personal accountability and commitment can lead to profound change and meaningful impact on others. If you’re seeking inspiration on overcoming your past, building something purposeful, or understanding the foundations of lasting recovery and success—this episode is a must-listen. 👉 Connect with Empower Recovery Homes: Instagram: @empowerrecoveryhomes Facebook: "Empower Recovery" empowerrecoveryhomes.com Empower Recovery Homes Intake Line Phone Number: (720) -779-1359 👉 Follow Devine: Snapchat: @devinesalerno Instagram: @thedevinesalerno TikTok: @thedevinesalerno Facebook: "The Devine Salerno Podcast" X: @westdevine4tay thedevinesalernopodcast.com 👉 Follow Ledger Media Company: TikTok: @ledgermediacompany Instagram: @ledgermediacompany ledgermediacompany.com 👉 Follow Gold Standard Recovery: Search “Gold Standard Recovery” or visit the link below YouTube: @GoldStandardDenver Instagram: @goldstandarddenver TikTok: @goldstandarddenver Snapchat: @goldstandardco goldstandarddenver.com Drop a like if this story hit home, comment your biggest takeaway below, and share with someone who needs to hear it. New episodes drop regularly — stay tuned!

Episode 5: From Tragedy & Prison to Redemption Through Music | Austin “AK?” Kudrna on The Devine Salerno Podcast In this powerful and raw episode, host Devine Salerno sits down with Austin “AK?” Kudrna — a Colorado native, musician, and father who has completely transformed his life after years of struggle. Austin opens up about the traumatic events that shaped his early years: losing a close friend to violence at just 14 (shot at his own house), lax parenting that led to trouble as a teen, multiple stints in juvenile detention, addiction, and eventually prison. He doesn’t hold back on how these experiences spiraled into a dark path… but also how rock bottom became the foundation for real change. Today, Austin is a family man, fully committed to his loved ones, and passionately pursuing his music career. His story is proof that no matter how far you’ve fallen, redemption, purpose, and a better life are possible. This is an inspiring conversation about resilience, accountability, healing, and finding your true path. If you’re dealing with addiction, past trauma, or just need motivation to turn things around — this episode is for you. Brought to you by Ledger Media Company Booking & inquiries: [email protected] 👉 Connect with “AK?” - Austin Kudrna: Instagram: @austin_ak_kudrna Facebook: "Austin AK Kudrna" Distrokid.com - search "AK?" YouTube: ‪@AustinKelley970‬ 👉 Follow Devine: Snapchat: @devinesalerno Instagram: @thedevinesalerno TikTok: @thedevinesalerno Facebook: "The Devine Salerno Podcast" X: @westdevine4tay thedevinesalernopodcast.com 👉 Follow Ledger Media Company: TikTok: @ledgermediacompany Instagram: @ledgermediacompany ledgermediacompany.com 👉 Follow Gold Standard Recovery: Search “Gold Standard Recovery” or visit the link below YouTube: @GoldStandardDenver Instagram: @goldstandarddenver TikTok: @goldstandarddenver Snapchat: @goldstandardco goldstandarddenver.com Drop a like if this story hit home, comment your biggest takeaway below, and share with someone who needs to hear it. New episodes drop regularly — stay tuned!

Episode 4: “Question Everything” of The Devine Salerno Podcast (produced by Ledger Media Company) features host Matt Bate interviewing Devine in a bold, unfiltered discussion. They cover: Futures trading & financial markets: strategies, risks, and real talkCourse seller scams preying on hopeful tradersDeep corruption topics: Charlie Kirk assassination questions, Elon Musk’s wealth & power, Epstein Files, Pizzagate, elite control & manipulationDevine reveals dream future guests: Vinnie Paz, Apathy, Wildcard, Nobe Inf Gang, and G-Mo Skee.The episode wraps with practical advice for recently released prisoners: starting a business, rebuilding life, and repairing credit for financial independence. 👉 Follow Devine: Snapchat: @devinesalerno Instagram: @thedevinesalerno TikTok: @thedevinesalerno Facebook: "The Devine Salerno Podcast" X: @westdevine4tay thedevinesalernopodcast.com 👉 Follow Ledger Media Company: TikTok: @ledgermediacompany Instagram: @ledgermediacompany ledgermediacompany.com 👉 Follow Gold Standard Recovery: Search “Gold Standard Recovery” or visit the link below YouTube: @GoldStandardDenver Instagram: @goldstandarddenver TikTok: @goldstandarddenver Snapchat: @goldstandardco goldstandarddenver.com New Episode featuring Austin Kudrna (AK?) coming soon! Question everything—watch now! Do you believe in "conspiracy theories"? Comment your thoughts below! Subscribe for more raw convos from Devine Salerno brought to you by Ledger Media Company. #QuestionEverything #DevineSalernoPodcast #CorruptionExposed #FinancialFreedom